Cancer Discrimination
A survey, published by the charity MacMillan Cancer Support, has revealed that almost one-fifth (18%) of people diagnosed with cancer believe that they experience discrimination upon their return to work
A survey, published by the charity MacMillan Cancer Support, has revealed that almost one-fifth (18%) of people diagnosed with cancer believe that they experience discrimination upon their return to work.
The survey of 1,009 cancer patients also identified a number of other points:
- 14% of those diagnosed with cancer give up work or are made redundant as a result
- 15% said they returned to work before they felt ready to do so and
- A number of patients said they felt guilty for taking time off for medical treatment
The results of the survey indicate that employers are perhaps not offering the right support and reasonable adjustments to employees who have suffered or are suffering with cancer.
Best Practice
Employers are required to make reasonable adjustments where there is a provision, criteria or practice which places a disabled employee at a substantial disadvantage compared to those who are not disabled. The duty also extends to adjustments to physical features of the workplace and the provision of auxiliary aids.
Examples of reasonable adjustments that may be relevant in these circumstances include allowing the employee to have a phased return to work and offering flexible working in order to allow the employee time to attend medical appointments.
Employers should seek advice when proposing, implementing or withdrawing adjustments to reduce the risk of a disability discrimination claim.